Review all requests through its smart channels

“Identity”: priority to return for those who have first-degree relatives in the country

Residents abroad are required to obtain an entry permit. Photo: Eric Arrazas

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship confirmed that it reviews all requests for the return of residents submitted to it through its smart channels, noting that it gives priority to requests for residents who have first-degree relatives only.

This came in response to inquiries received by the authority through its accounts on social media, about the reasons for the delay in deciding on return requests submitted by residents present in multiple countries, and the rejection of some requests despite their submission more than once.

The authority requires individuals, when applying for a return permit from abroad, to include documents and documents, including proof of a relative's relationship within the country (optional), and a copy of residency and passport (compulsory).

In response to questions raised about the cancellation of the return permit, following the update of previous cabinet decisions regarding the extension of residency, entry permits and identity cards, until next December, and granting a deadline for residents to renew their expired residency and identity cards, the authority confirmed that the return permit is still valid and a condition for entering the country.

The authority explained that residents who are abroad, before coming, must obtain an entry permit, through the authority's smart services system, in addition to conducting a "Covid-19" examination through approved centers in some countries, and the result is negative so that they can return.

On the other hand, residents noted that they quickly obtained approval of their requests to return to the country, after the resumption of air traffic between the Emirates and their countries at the beginning of this month, which contributed to their reunification with their families inside the country, after about three months due to the suspension of international air traffic.

The authority has allocated, through its smart services website, a service for residents outside the country, who have valid residencies, that allows them to issue permits to enter the UAE and facilitate their return in emergency cases. The date of approval, while specifying the link https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitServiceForm. aspx to submit applications for entry permits for the Dubai residence campaign.

The authority confirmed that permits are issued gradually within controls, in light of the current health conditions, and in order to preserve the safety of residents wishing to return to the country, pointing out that the request is canceled in the event of it being returned three times due to data deficiencies or failure to complete the required documents. Rules and regulations are subject to change without notice.

The authority warned the auditors not to book or purchase tickets or travel before approving the entry request to the country, explaining that reviewing the request may require some time, and after obtaining approval, individuals can book travel tickets according to their actual travel date, as the dates entered in the request are considered hypothetical. .

The authority called on customers to ensure the validity of the passport information in the application, as the same passport must be used to book a ticket and come to the country, and in the event of a difference in the passport data, a new entry permit must be requested.

Allowing residents outside the country for more than 6 months to return

The spokesperson for the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Brigadier Khamis Al-Kaabi, confirmed that residents whose residency has expired and who have been outside the country for more than six months, against the background of the suspension of international air traffic and the precautionary measures applied due to the “Corona” pandemic, are allowed to return to the country according to the procedures followed.

Al-Kaabi indicated that they have a one-month deadline from the date of their arrival in the country, to amend their status, renew their residency, and the expired identity card.

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